10 Metoprolol Side Effects You Should Know About
The phrase “your doctor is praying you don’t discover” is sensationalized. Metoprolol is a commonly prescribed beta blocker, and many people take it safely for years. Still, it can cause side effects worth recognizing.
N
nhs.uk
+1
Tiredness or weakness — especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.
Dizziness or light-headedness — metoprolol lowers heart rate and blood pressure.
Slow heartbeat (bradycardia) — an excessively slow pulse can sometimes require medical attention.
Low blood pressure — may cause dizziness, weakness, or fainting.
Cold hands and feet — reduced peripheral circulation can make the extremities feel unusually cold.
N
nhs.uk
+1
Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams — insomnia and nightmares have been reported.
Depression or mood changes — depression is a recognized reported adverse effect.
Shortness of breath or wheezing — beta blockers can aggravate breathing problems in susceptible people.
D
DailyMed
+1
Diarrhea or stomach problems — gastrointestinal effects can occur.
Memory or concentration changes — confusion and short-term memory problems have been reported, although these symptoms can have many other causes.
D
DailyMed
When to seek medical help
Contact a healthcare professional if you develop persistent dizziness, fainting, unusually slow heartbeat, worsening swelling, or new/worsening shortness of breath. Severe breathing difficulty, chest pain that doesn’t stop, or signs of a serious allergic reaction require emergency care.
N
nhs.uk
Most important: don’t stop metoprolol suddenly. Abrupt withdrawal can worsen heart problems and may precipitate myocardial ischemia. Your prescriber should supervise any dose reduction or discontinuation.
D
DailyMed
If you’re experiencing a particular symptom while taking metoprolol, the dose, formulation (tartrate vs. succinate), and reason you’re taking it can make a difference in how the symptom should be interpreted.
N
D
Sources
